MISSION
WELCOME
For more than four decades, Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings has been sharing chamber music in ways that are personal, welcoming, and unforgettable. This season’s theme, Hear • Here, is all about being fully present—with the music, the artists, and the unique places where we gather.
Think of our three concert series as three different ways to experience that magic. Nightnotes brings you up close in relaxed, intimate settings where the music feels like it’s just for you. Structurally Sound transforms Detroit’s most remarkable venues into part of the performance, letting you hear how history and architecture shape the sound. And the Signature series offers cornerstone concerts—from holiday traditions to exciting collaborations— that showcase the very best of what DCWS does.
No matter which concerts you choose, you’ll find a welcoming community, inspiring performances, and music that stays with you long after the last note. We can’t wait to welcome you at the upcoming concerts.
Cole Randolph at Nightnotes
OUR PATH FORWARD
NEXT GENERATION CAMPAIGN
DCWS was formed by a group of musicians drawn together by friendship and love for exceptional performances. Over the past 43 years, that spirit has deepened into a true camaraderie between our artists and audiences. A broader artistic dialogue evolved, and through countless concerts and years of connection, a family was born.
The Next Generation Campaign is designed to empower our artists to continue providing great musical services to our community for the decades ahead and beyond. DCWS has successfully transitioned to its second generation of performers, building collaborations, serving young people, and even weathering global pandemics. The Campaign’s goal is to sustain and grow the organization for future generations of musicians and music lovers.
The DCWS Board has set a goal of raising $1 million in the Next Generation Campaign. The money will be used to support our musicians and staff, investing in visionary artistic projects, and expanding programs in schools and community spaces. To date, generous supporters have provided over $700,000 in cash and pledges. For more information, please contact Jocelyn Conselva, Director of Development, at jocelyn@art-ops.org.
OUR VISION & VALUES
DCWS will engage a broad audience through immersive performances in intimate settings to foster a life-long relationship with the art form. We are committed to building an organization that can transition from generation to generation.
WELCOMING
We share our art broadly in an atmosphere of friendship, making chamber music approachable and enjoyable for a wide audience.
RELATIONSHIP DRIVEN
We build authentic connections between our musicians, staff, board, audience, partners, and supporters. These connections foster a sense of family, help unite communities and contribute to our organizational stability.
IMMERSIVE
We perform in non-traditional spaces, create new music, and integrate complementary art forms into our performances. Our audiences enjoy direct interaction with the musicians, benefiting from their personal insights into the music.
RESILIENT
We are a durable organization that weathers economic challenges and leadership transitions. We maintain relevance in a changing world through our dedication, flexibility, and creativity.
COLLABORATIVE
Our passion for engaging new communities and building partnerships allows us to explore our art in new ways and use music to tell stories that need to be heard. Our commitment to education fosters new generations of patrons and musicians.
EXCEPTIONAL
We recruit the most talented musicians, staff, and board members who share our vision. We pride ourselves on the quality of all that we do.
STAFF & LEADERSHIP
ARTOPS STAFF
ADMINISTRATION
Maury Okun
President & CEO
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Jainelle Robinson
PR/Community Engagement Officer
CLIENT LIAISON
Lulu Fall
Cabaret 313 Executive Director
DEVELOPMENT
Jocelyn Conselva Director of Development
Allison Prost Development Manager
Alli Wamser
Patron Engagement Associate
Muse Ye
Institutional Giving Manager
FINANCE
Triet Huynh Controller
Phuong Huynh Finance Assistant
MARKETING
Bridget Favre Director of Marketing
Layla Blahnik-Thoune Multimedia Marketing Associate
Lauren Cichocki Marketing Manager
Olivia Donnel Marketing Associate
OPERATIONS
Nolan Cardenas Artistic Operations Manager
Lane Warren Operations Associate
To learn more about our internship and employment opportunities, contact Alli Wamser at wamser@art-ops.org.
To learn more about ArtOps services, contact Bridget Favre at favre@art-ops.org or visit www.art-ops.org.
Allison Prost, JocelynConselva,LaneWarren
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Geoff Nathan, Board Chair
Emeritus Professor (English/Linguistics) and retired Chief Privacy Officer, Wayne State University
Elizabeth Sullivan, Board Chair
Retired Managing Director, Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies
Sally Baker
Senior Director of Planned Giving, University of Michigan
Mary Brevard
Retired Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications, BorgWarner
Damien Crutcher
Founder & CEO, Crescendo Detroit; DSO Managing Director, Detroit Harmony
Gloria Heppner
Retired Associate Vice President of Research, Wayne State University
Thomas Hitchman
Retired Director, Forecasting & Market Analysis, General Motors
Mary Jarman
Founder & CEO, MJ Marketing, MarketPulse
Victoria King
Retired Bassoon, Detroit Symphony Orchestra
JOIN THE BOARD
Richard McClelland U.S. Army, retired
Matthew Morin
Chairman, Macro Connect; Co-Founder and Director of External Affairs, MarkSetBot
Maury Okun President, ArtOps, Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings, Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival
Martha Pleiss Clinical Social Worker
Ralph Safford
Attorney and Principal, Safford & Baker
Edward Sharples
Retired Dean, Wayne State University
Scott Strong Horn, Detroit Symphony Orchestra
Barry Williams
Retired Engineering Supervisor, Chrysler Corp.
Beverly Williams
Retired Nurse Case Manager
Andrea Wulf Retired Trust Banker
Want to help guide the future of Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings? Join our Board of Trustees! We’re seeking passionate individuals from our audience to help shape our artistic vision and strengthen our organization. Please contact Jocelyn Conselva at jocelyn@art-ops.org to learn more.
2025-2026 SEASON OVERVIEW
MELODIES & MANUSCRIPTS
SAT, SEPTEMBER 27, 2025 • 2 PM
Hosmer Building
Sponsored by Gloria Heppner, Matthew Morin, and Joseph Durbin
Set in the historic Hosmer Building — a 1911 Italian Renaissance library turned creative hub — this multimedia program explores the art of storytelling through sound. Bassoonist Conrad Cornelison leads the performance alongside oboist Alex Kinmonth, flutist Amanda Blaikie, clarinetist Jack Walters, saxophonist Walt Puyear, and pianist Shuyu Lin.
RESONATE & RENEW
FRI, OCTOBER 24, 2025 • 7:30 PM
Hagopian World of Rugs, Birmingham
Sponsored by Fay B. Herman
Schubert’s masterful Piano Trio in B-flat is preceded by Resonate commissions from Jonathan Bailey Holland and Marcos Balter. All spectacularly performed by cellist una O’Riordan, violinist Yvonne Lam, pianist Zhihua Tang, and soprano Jocelyn Conselva.
TRIOS & TROMBONES
FRI, NOVEMBER 21, 2025 • 7:30 PM
Hagopian World of Rugs, Birmingham
Sponsored by Kathleen Wendler
The DSO’s trombone section—Gracie Potter, David Binder, and Adam Rainey— alongside pianist Liz Ames, present a bold and dynamic program of solo works, trios, and ensemble arrangements that are guaranteed to leave you buzzing!
HOLIDAY BRASS
FRI, DECEMBER 5, 2025 • 7 PM
Kirk in the Hills Sponsored by Center for Financial Planning and Kathleen Block
With the Ann Arbor Pioneer High School Choir
SAT, DECEMBER 13, 2025 • 11 AM
St. Matthew’s & St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church Sponsored by Pearl Planning and Butzel
With the Stoney Creek High School Choir and Madrigal Chorale
Featuring guest conductor Scott Boerma, a festive DCWS tradition returns with brass and choral favorites in two joyful holiday performances.
INNOVATION IN JAZZ
FRI, JANUARY 23, 2026 • 7:30 PM
Hagopian World of Rugs, Birmingham Sponsored by Mary Brevard, Karen Stankye, and Sharon Niedermaier
Hidden Nomination, a genre-defying jazz quartet, shares their passion for musical exploration and innovation through a Nightnotes performance. As an ensemble that emerged from Ann Arbor’s own Blue Llama Jazz Club, they have quickly become a leading force in the Midwest music scene.
NIGHTNOTES SIGNATURE STRUCTURALLY SOUND
Series descriptions on next page
SPECIAL EVENTS
IMPACT BRUNCH
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2025 • 11 AM
The Heathers Club of Bloomfield
Sponsored by the Family of Carroll V. Williams
This fundraising celebration features a lively afternoon of performances by DCWS musicians plus brunch, an auction, and a chance to win curated gift baskets.
NOTES THR0UGH THE SEASONS
FRI, FEBRUARY 13, 2026 • 7:30 PM
Hagopian World of Rugs, Birmingham
Sponsored by Andrea Wulf
Harpist Alyssa Katahara, flutist Amanda Blaikie, and bassoonist Cornelia Sommer present a vibrant program of works by American and French composers exploring human and natural landscapes through seasonal motifs and expressive textures.
WOVEN AIR
FRI, MARCH 6, 2026 • 7:30 PM
Hagopian World of Rugs, Birmingham
Sponsored by Elizabeth Sullivan & Steven Gellman
Clarinetist Jack Walters is joined by DSO African-American Fellow and clarinetist Triniti Rives and cellist Jeremy Crosmer for a compelling program featuring works by Mendelssohn, Poulenc, Khachaturian, and Nino Rota.
RHYTHM & TEXTURE
SUN, MARCH 29, 2026 • 5 PM
Detroit Repertory Theatre
Sponsored by Martha Pleiss
The Mirrored Glass Harp Trio explores soundscaping with lighting design and video projections drawn from the Detroit Repertory Theatre itself—amplifying the venue’s legacy of social justice through music, visuals, and immersive artistry.
RESONATE SYMPOSIUM
OCTOBER 17-18, 2025
Bowling Green State University
The Resonate Symposium will bring together student performers and composers for two days of performance, collaboration, and coaching.
MAHAGONNY SONGSPIEL
SUN, APRIL 12, 2026 • 3 PM
Temple Emanu-El
Sponsored by Lillian & Walter Dean
under the baton of Timothy Weiss, DCWS reunites with the Detroit Opera Resident Artists for a program including Kurt Weill’s Mahagonny Songspiel and Maurice Ravel’s Hebrew Songs.
APPALACHIAN SPRING
FRI, MAY 15, 2026 • 7 PM
Detroit Institute of Arts – Rivera Court Sponsored by Kate & Randy Safford
As part of the DIA’s Friday Night Live series, Timothy Weiss conducts DCWS for the performance of two works celebrating America—Copland’s Appalachian Spring and the world premiere of Daniel Pesca’s Visions of Mt. Tamalpais, a DCWS co-commission.
*Non-subscription. Included with DIA admission. For details, visit dia.org.
DCWS AT THE FESTIVAL
SUN, JUNE 14, 2026 • 7 PM
Seligman Performing Arts Center
DCWS artists join forces with world renowned musicians of the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival for an exciting collaboration as part of their opening night concert.
CONCERT SERIES
For over four decades, Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings has invited audiences to experience chamber music in meaningful ways. This season’s theme, Hear • Here, celebrates being fully present with music and place.
Our three concert series bring this vision to life:
NIGHTNOTES
Hosted in the cozy and casual atmosphere of Birmingham’s Hagopian World of Rugs, each Nightnotes program is curated by an artist and their peers. Enjoy a pre-concert reception, an engaging and conversational performance, and the opportunity to mingle with the artists after the concert.
The 2025-26 Nightnotes series is presented by Kingsley Sears in loving memory of Lurline Sears.
The 2025-26 Nightnotes series is sponsored by
SIGNATURE
The Signature series engages audiences in an innovative and entertaining chamber music experience by bringing together the top musicians in the area, many of whom are members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and faculty at major Michigan universities.
STRUCTURALLY SOUND
Our nationally-recognized Structurally Sound series offers amazing musical explorations of Detroit spaces by relating the concert’s programming to unique qualities of each venue. As DCWS’ most immersive series, guests will experience a program rich in visual & musical history.
DCWS ARTISTS
AMANDA BLAIKIE flute
Sponsored by Mary Brevard
Amanda Blaikie is currently Acting Assistant Principal Flute of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and is tenured as 2nd Flute. She previously held the position of Principal Flute with the Detroit Opera, Sarasota Opera, Miami City Ballet, and the Battle Creek Symphony. She has also performed with the New York Philharmonic, Orlando Philharmonic, Ann Arbor Symphony, and New World Symphony. She frequently performs in recital and as a concerto soloist. Passionate about teaching, Blaikie previously was on the flute faculty of Oakland university and is presently on the flute faculty at Wayne State university.
CONRAD CORNELISON bassoon
Sponsored by Victoria King
Conrad Cornelison joined the Detroit Symphony Orchestra as Principal Bassoon in 2022 at the appointment of Music Director Jader Bignamini. He performs regularly with the Chamber Soloists of Detroit and teaches bassoon at Wayne State university. He previously served as Principal Bassoon of the Jacksonville Symphony and taught at the university of North Florida. Cornelison has appeared with the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Houston Symphony, and others. A graduate of Juilliard and Rice university, he is an Interlochen Arts Academy alumnus and lives in Troy, Michigan with his wife, daughter, and dog.
MONICA FOSNAUGH oboe and English horn
Sponsored by Lynn Myers
Monica Fosnaugh joined the Detroit Symphony Orchestra as the orchestra’s English horn in 2012. Fosnaugh has been featured as a soloist with the DSO, performing works by Aaron Copland and Leonard Slatkin. She attended the Cleveland Institute of Music where she studied with John Mack and continued her studies at Rice university with Robert Atherholt. She regularly performs in solo and chamber recitals and provides instruction through private coaching and giving master classes throughout the u.S.
DAVID JACKSON trombone
Sponsored by Douglas Cale
David Jackson, Professor of Trombone at the university of Michigan, is a celebrated performer and educator. A passionate advocate for new music, he has commissioned and premiered significant works including Eric Ewazen’s Angel of Dreamers and Adolphus Hailstork’s John Henry’s Big. Jackson’s extensive performing career includes appearances with the Detroit, Chicago, and Pittsburgh Symphonies. He is a highly sought-after clinician, conducting master classes globally at prestigious institutions such as The Juilliard School and Yale university. He spends his summers teaching and performing at the Brevard Music Center. He is an S. E. Shires artist and clinician.
KIMBERLY KALOYANIDES KENNEDY violin
Sponsored by Gwen & Richard Bowlby
Kimberly Kaloyanides Kennedy won her coveted position as a violinist with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra at the age of 22 and later became Associate Concertmaster in 2003. She pursued her studies at Brevard Music Center, Interlochen Arts Camp, Harid Conservatory and the university of Michigan. Throughout her training, she won several prizes in competitions around the country, including the Grand Prize in the National MTNA competition and first prize in the Greek Women’s National Competition in Chicago.
VICTORIA KING Musician Laureate
Sponsored by Nancy Duffy
victoria King, a founding member of DCWS, served in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra from 1984 to 2021. Prior to her appointment to the DSO, she was a member of the Detroit Opera Orchestra. She received both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree as a bassoonist and woodwind specialist from the university of Michigan, where she studied with L. Hugh Cooper. Continuing with post-graduate studies, she worked under the guidance of DSO Principal Bassoon Robert Williams at Wayne State university.
ALEX KINMONTH oboe
Sponsored by Beverly & Barry Williams
Alexander Kinmonth serves as the Principal Oboe (Jack A. and Aviva Robinson Chair) of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, a position he has held since his 2015 appointment by Music Director Laureate Leonard Slatkin. A graduate of The Juilliard School, Kinmonth studied with Nathan Hughes. He has performed as a guest musician with the Metropolitan Opera, playing both oboe and English horn. Kinmonth is an award-winning musician, recognized by the Professional Musicians Club of Boston. Beyond music, he’s a National Junior Olympics fencer and a Scholastic Art and Writing Awards winner for short stories, reflecting his diverse talents.
LAURENCE LIBERSON clarinet
Sponsored by Damien Crutcher and the Family of Burton D. Jones
Laurence Liberson, founding member of DCWS, was appointed Assistant Principal Clarinet and E-Flat Clarinet of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in 1981, where he served until his retirement in 2022. Active as a recitalist and chamber musician, he has presented master classes in clarinet and chamber music throughout the u.S. and has performed on countless recordings over his long career. He has performed exclusively on Buffet Crampon clarinets since 1966.
TIMOTHY MCALLISTER
saxophone & Artistic Advisor
Sponsored by Gail & James Straith
Timothy McAllister is an acclaimed soloist, soprano chair of the GRAMMY® Award-winning PRISM Quartet, and champion of contemporary music credited with over 50 recordings and 200 premieres of new compositions by eminent and emerging composers worldwide. He has appeared with many orchestras, from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to the BBC Symphony Orchestra at the Proms. He currently serves as Professor of Saxophone at the university of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance.
MAURY OKUN
Musician
Laureate
Sponsored by Karen Hahn & Claudio Roveroni
Maury Okun is president of Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings and ArtOps. He is also president of the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival. In this capacity, he has overseen the remarkable growth of three of the area’s strongest arts organizations. He retired as Principal Trombonist of the Detroit Opera Orchestra in 2014 and is co-founder of DCWS. His work has helped to elevate the profile of chamber music in the region, making it more accessible and engaging to a broader audience.
H. ROBERT REYNOLDS
Artistic Advisor Laureate
Sponsored by Donald Baker
H. Robert Reynolds is a distinguished American conductor and educator, most celebrated for his transformative tenure at the university of Michigan from 1975 to 2001. In addition to his work at u-M, Reynolds has held prominent positions at the Thornton School of Music at the university of Southern California (uSC). He is also the founder of the H. Robert Reynolds Conducting Institute, held annually at the Midwest Clinic, one of the world’s largest music education conferences.
GARTH SIMMONS trombone
Sponsored by Richard McClelland
Garth Simmons is the principal trombonist with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. From 2006 to 2017, Simmons was adjunct associate professor of trombone at Bowling Green State university. He holds degrees from Northwestern university and the Eastman School of Music and spent his summers at the Aspen Music Festival. In 1997, Simmons left Chicago to become the principal trombonist with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, a position he held until 2000.
CORNELIA SOMMER bassoon
Sponsored by Geoff Nathan
Dr. Cornelia Sommer is a bassoonist, arranger, and educator dedicated to sharing music with diverse audiences and expanding the bassoon’s repertoire. A member of the Detroit Symphony since 2023, she has also appeared with the Boston Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, American Bach Soloists, and the Breaking Winds Bassoon Quartet. Sommer’s debut album, New Enchantments: Fairy Tale Music for Bassoon, combines new commissions with her own arrangements of classic fairy tale works. Currently on bassoon faculty at Oakland university, she has also taught music history and ethics at The Juilliard School. Sommer is a graduate of The Juilliard School (DMA), Yale university (MM), and Indiana university (BM).
SCOTT STRONG horn
Sponsored by Thomas Hitchman & Keith Hewitt
Scott Strong was appointed Third Horn of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in 2014. He was born into a family of musicians in Iowa and was raised in the Dallas, Texas area. Strong received his undergraduate degree from Southern Methodist university and completed his graduate studies at Rice university before joining the Louisiana Philharmonic horn section. He is an active participant in many festivals and has held horn positions in the Houston Grand Opera, the Houston Ballet Orchestra, and the San Antonio Symphony. Strong has studied with Gregory Hustis and William verMeulen.
KENNETH THOMPKINS trombone
Sponsored by Kathleen Block
Kenneth Thompkins served as Principal Trombone of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for 27 years before being named Associate Professor of Trombone at Michigan State university in 2024. A former participant in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s African American Orchestra Fellowship program, he served as a mentor to several orchestra fellows. He received his bachelor’s degree from Northwestern university, studying with the late Frank Crisafulli, and he received his master’s degree from Temple university, studying with Eric Carlson.
JAMES VANVALKENBURG viola
Sponsored by the Betty & Art Blair Fund
James vanvalkenburg serves as Assistant Principal viola of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. As a founding member of the International String Quartet, he toured the world with concerts in Europe, the Far East, South America, and the u.S. A graduate of the Interlochen Arts Academy and Indiana university Jacobs School of Music, he has enjoyed chamber music collaborations with many of his favorite musicians, including Menahem Pressler, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky, David Shifrin, and Isaac Stern.
JACK WALTERS clarinet
Sponsored by Edward Sharples
Jack Walters joined the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in 2017, appointed by Leonard Slatkin. Prior to this, he was a Zarin Mehta Global Academy Fellow with the New York Philharmonic and performed with the New World Symphony. A scholarship recipient, Walters has attended prestigious festivals like the Music Academy of the West, Texas Music Festival, and Kent Blossom Music Festival. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the university of Michigan and continued his studies at Rice university’s Shepherd School of Music.
TIMOTHY WEISS
Guest Conductor & Artistic Advisor
Sponsored by Dr. Mary Schlaff & Dr. Sandy Koltonow
For three decades, Timothy Weiss has directed the Oberlin Contemporary Music Ensemble, bringing the group to a level of artistry and virtuosity in performance that rivals the finest new music groups. He also serves as a faculty member and is the director of the Aspen Contemporary Ensemble at the Aspen Music Festival and School. Weiss holds degrees from the Royal Conservatory in Brussels, Belgium; Northwestern university; and the university of Michigan.
ROBERT WHITE trumpet
Sponsored by Andrea Wulf
Dr. Robert White is Professor of Trumpet at Western Michigan university. He enjoys an active career as an orchestral, chamber, commercial, and solo musician. As a member of the Western Brass Quintet, he has spearheaded commissions and recordings. He performs regularly with the Detroit and Grand Rapids Symphonies, Detroit Opera Orchestra, and has appeared with the Atlanta and Cleveland Orchestras. White has taught and performed on four continents, including concerts in Nairobi, Tokyo, Paris, and Tenerife. He holds Doctor of Music and Master of Music degrees in trumpet performance and literature from the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana university, in addition to a music education degree from Western Michigan university.
JOHANNA YARBROUGH horn
Sponsored by Kathleen Wendler
Following a 12 year career in the horn section of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Johanna Yarbrough joined the faculty at Louisiana State university in 2024. She came to Detroit after completing a Professional Studies Certificate at the Colburn Conservatory of Music in Los Angeles. Prior to her time in LA, she attended the university of Alabama, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Music. She also studied abroad at the Norwegian Academy of Music in Oslo, Norway. She has appeared as a soloist with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and has presented master classes and recitals throughout the country.
MARGARET E. WINTERS ENDOWED CELLO CHAIR
In memory of our beloved former Board Chair, Margaret Winters, DCWS has created a permanent Endowed Cello Chair, to be filled by different artists at our performances going forward. With great humility, we sincerely thank Geoff Nathan, DCWS Board Co-chair and Margaret’s husband, for generously creating this new chair.
Attorneys and Counselors
Ralph R. Safford
Donald H. Baker, Jr.
safford & baker, pllc
5440 Corporate Drive, Ste. 220 Troy, MI 48098 (248) 646-9100 www.saffordbaker.com
DCWS & THE COMMUNITY
RESONATE
Resonate is a multi-year commissioning project dedicated to amplifying diverse voices in American chamber music.
Through new works by groundbreaking composers, Resonate explores the stories, sounds, and perspectives of the African Diaspora, reshaping the classical music landscape one commission at a time.
NEW FOR 2025-26
Marcos Balter
Swarm Country
Jonathan Bailey Holland Ephemera, Interrupted
RESONATE SYMPOSIUM
October 17–18, 2025
The 2025–26 commissions will premiere at the Resonate Symposium and be featured at the October 24 Nightnotes concert the following weekend.
Held at Bowling Green State university, the second Resonate Symposium will bring together student performers and composers for two days of performance, collaboration, and coaching.
This hands-on experience deepens artistic connections and reinforces Resonate’s commitment to education and mentorship.
Launched in 2020, Resonate is a DCWS-initiated collaboration between eight prominent institutions across Michigan and Ohio. Together, we are commissioning new compositions, presenting powerful performances, and investing in the next generation of artists and audiences.
Robert White&Pamela Z
EDUCATION INITIATIVES
At Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings, we believe music belongs everywhere — in schools, neighborhoods, and community spaces. We are committed to promoting music education and the future of chamber music through providing resources to young musicians and students of all ages.
IN-SCHOOL SECTIONALS
With generous support from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, the Lula Wilson Trust, and the Phillip and Elizabeth Filmer Memorial Charitable Trust, we recently expanded our education programs. From January to May, nearly 400 students across eight schools in the Ferndale, Pontiac, Farmington, and Wayne-Westland school districts collaborated with 36 professional musicians.
Through 154 visits—ranging from sectionals to teacher professional development—DCWS worked hand-in-hand with instrumental music teachers to create customized activities to strengthen their music programs and inspire their young musicians.
Timothy Blackmon Jr. at Pontiac Schools
YOUNG ARTIST FEATURE
In celebration of our 40-year milestone, we began a new tradition of welcoming a young performer, often students of our core musicians, to open each concert.
This tradition has become an audience favorite and will continue into the 2025-26 season. As DCWS acknowledges its legacy and accomplishments, it is also looking forward to seeing the impact the next generation will make in chamber music.
The Young Artist Feature is generously sponsored by Myrna Hitchman.
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN & OBERLIN CONSERVATORY COLLABORATION
DCWS annually commissions a young composer-in-residence and young ensemble-in-residence in collaboration with the university of Michigan and Oberlin Conservatory. Each year, one school provides a young composer while the other provides a young ensemble. The composer writes a work that the ensemble typically premieres for a DCWS audience. Through hosting these young musicians, they receive performance and professional development opportunities as they build their careers.
2025-26 COLLABORATION
Oleksandr Kostov
Composer-in-Residence, U-M
Pandan Quartet
Ensemble-in-Residence, Oberlin
This commission will premiere at the April 12 Signature series concert.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
LEE PROST
We're thrilled to announce Lee Prost as our volunteer of the Year! A dedicated and valuable member of the Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings family, Lee has been a reliable presence behind the scenes. You may have seen her at our concerts, warmly greeting guests and passing out programs, or helping out in the office, meticulously stuffing envelopes for our large mailings. Her commitment extends beyond DCWS—she also lends her talents to our sister organization, the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival, where this past year, she took charge of coordinating volunteers for their annual Opening Night Dinner.
Lee's passion for the arts is matched by her many other interests. A skilled professional cook and baker, she has brought her culinary expertise to places like Simply Good in Birmingham and currently works for Give Thanks Bakeries. When she's not whipping up delicious creations, she enjoys hitting the tennis courts and spending time up north.
But for a member of our Development team, Allison Prost, Lee is more than just a volunteer—she's also her mom. It's truly a testament to the family-like atmosphere of our organization to have multiple generations so deeply involved in our mission. We are incredibly grateful for Lee's dedication and generosity. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor!
JOIN OUR VOLUNTEER TEAM!
volunteers are an integral part of Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings. Join a large group of individuals who donate their time, expertise, and special skills to help make the organization stronger. Have fun, meet new people, hear concerts, and participate in a range of activities!
For more information about these volunteering opportunities, please contact Alli Wamser, Patron Engagement Associate, at wamser@art-ops.org.
WAYS TO GIVE SUPPORT
For 43 seasons, your generosity has allowed us to create innovative musical experiences that are unsurpassed anywhere in our region. Thanks to your dedication and enthusiasm, DCWS continues to push ourselves and our beloved art form to new heights. The success of DCWS is a result of our magnanimous friends.
and his sponsor Edward Sh
SPONSOR A CONCERT
Whether you want to sponsor a concert as an individual or business, this is a wonderful way to invest more fully in our artistic programming. Concert sponsors receive several benefits, including tickets and concert signage. You can sponsor on your own or co-sponsor with another individual or entity. Sponsoring a concert can also be a lovely way to honor or memorialize a loved one.
SPONSOR AN ARTIST
Show your support by sponsoring an artist in our core ensemble. Our artist sponsors not only help underpin our organization’s longevity but also receive a number of fantastic benefits including signage at concerts, tickets to performances and an invitation to an exclusive luncheon with their artist.
SUPPORT THE NEXT GENERATION CAMPAIGN
The Next Generation Campaign recognizes the vision and confidence of DCWS supporters. Funds from the Next Generation Campaign are invested in the long-term, offering ongoing stability while supplying additional revenue each year through returns gained on the investment. Donors to the Next Generation Campaign often include DCWS in their estate plans.
MAKE A DONATION
Our supporters are part of a broader DCWS family. Your tax-deductible gift to our organization helps to ensure outstanding chamber music as a staple in our community. Monthly and quarterly payment options are available.
To learn more, visit DetroitChamberWinds.org/Donate, call our office at (248) 559-2095, or contact Jocelyn Conselva, Director of Development, at jocelyn@art-ops.org.
FRIENDS OF DCWS
INDIVIDUAL SPONSORS
Sally & Donald Baker
Kathleen Block
Gwen & Richard Bowlby
Mary Brevard
Douglas Cale
Damien Crutcher
Lillian & Walter Dean
Nancy Duffy
Joseph Durbin
Karen Hahn & Claudio Roveroni
Gloria Heppner
Fay B. Herman
Thomas Hitchman & Keith Hewitt
Myrna Hitchman
Victoria King & James Kors
Richard McClelland
Matthew Morin
Lynn Myers
Geoff Nathan
Sharon Niedermaier
Martha Pleiss
Kate & Randy Safford
Dr. Mary Schlaff & Dr. Sandy Koltonow
Lurline† & Kingsley Sears
Edward Sharples
Karen Stankye
Gail & James Straith
Elizabeth Sullivan & Steven Gellman
Kathleen Wendler
Beverly & Barry Williams
Andrea Wulf
ANGEL: $5,000+
Elizabeth & Brian Bachynski
Lillian & Walter Dean
Stephanie & David Greer
Karen Hahn & Claudio Roveroni
Geoff Nathan
Tina Topalian & Maury Okun
Martha Pleiss
Kate & Randy Safford
Lurline† & Kingsley Sears
Gail & James Straith
Elizabeth Sullivan & Steven Gellman
Kathleen Wendler
Andrea Wulf
BENEFACTOR:
$1,500 – $4,999
Sally & Donald Baker
Kathleen Block
Gwen & Richard Bowlby
Mary Brevard
Butzel
Douglas Cale
Center for Financial Planning
Catherine Compton
Jane Conway
Marla Donovan
Nancy Duffy
Henry Grix & Howard Israel
Gloria Heppner
Fay B. Herman
Myrna Hitchman
Thomas Hitchman & Keith Hewitt
Mary & Michael Jarman
Frances King
Victoria King & James Kors
Frances Lewis
Becky & Dan Littmann
Richard McClelland
Matthew Morin
Lynn Myers
Sharon Niedermaier
Pearl Planning
The Peck Foundation
Dr. Mary Schlaff & Dr. Sandy Koltonow
Edward Sharples
Karen Stankye
Beverly & Barry Williams
GRAND PATRON:
$1,000 – $1,499
Nina Dodge Abrams
Daniel Boyce
Susan Goethel Campbell
Damien Crutcher
Joseph Durbin
Barbara & David Garlock
Richard Jessup
Becky & Sam Misuraca
Mayna & John Schumacher
Renate Soulen
Ruth & Mark Theobald
James Tocco
PATRON: $600 – $999
Minka Christoff-Cornelsen & Doug Cornelsen
Edward Kickham
Claire Stroker & Manny Tance
Katherine White
Dian Wilkins & Robert Deneweth
FRIEND: $300 – $599
Natalie Bruno
Carol† & Philip† Campbell
Drieka Degraff
Thea Glicksman
Barbara Heller
Richard Johnston
Nancy Jones
Monica & Fritz Kaenzig
Xiaodi Liu & Conrad Cornelison
Sara & Steven Majoros
Jane McKee
Lynne Metty
Laurie & Darryl Newman
Ruthanne Okun
Christie Peck & Buck Baker
Christine & Whitney Prince
Patricia Terry-Ross
Ulrike Treder & Reinhard Staebler
Gail and Lois Warden Fund
Martin Wunsch
In Memory of David Falvay
Denise Falvay Wong & John Wong
In Memory of Jenny Ginther
BethAnne Kunert
In Memory of Margaret Winters
Ruthanne Okun
Geoff Nathan
In Honor of Amanda Blaikie
Meghan Therry
CONTRIBUTOR:
$100 – $299
Karen & Allen Amber
Michelle Andonian
Anonymous
Marlene Bihlmeyer
Ilse Calcagno
Norma Ceaser
Garth Christie
Lucinda & Robert Clement
Darlene & Paul DeRubeis
Nancy & William Edmunds
Joan Emerick & Peter Saldana
Annmarie & Paul Erickson
Sheri & Kirk Falvay
Valerie & John Frederick
Margit Jackson
Jolyn Hillebrand
Mara Ignatius
Mary Kale & David Stout
Lawrence Larson
Judith LeBeau
Margo & Bob Lesser
Lisa & Brian Meer
Donna Mitts
Susan & Stephen Molina
In Honor of Sandie Landau
Elizabeth & Brian Bachynski
In Honor of Geoff Nathan
John F. Mozena
In Honor of Maury Okun
Minka Christoff-Cornelsen & Doug Cornelsen
Diane Okun
Karen Hahn & Claudio Roveroni
In Honor of Kate & Randy Safford
Katherine White
Joan Morris & William Bolcom
William Nutting
Diane Okun
Kathy Okun
Kathleen Oliphant
Mildred & David Palmer
Mary Paquette-Abt & Jeffrey Abt
Kerry Price
Barbara Prinzi
Nancy & Edward Rice
Jainelle Robinson
Suzanne Share
Tamara & Andrew Sherman
Josette Silver
Carolyn & Philip Sinder
Gayle & Timothy Skubick
Barbara Solms
Robert Stawarz
Meghan Therry
Peggy & Sam Tundo
Debbie & Colt Weatherston
Robert White
Cathy & Peter Woolley
Gail Zabowski
SUPPORTER: $35 – $99
Claire Abrams
Grace Brockett
Milena Cankovic
Barbara Cohen
Charles Dyer
Carol & Andrew Howell
Claude Jacobs
Carole Keller
BethAnne Kunert
Karen Broholm Martin & James Martin
Linda A. Martin
John F. Mozena
Sonia & Carl Olsen
Mary M. Roby
Susan Slattery
Judith Szypa
Toni & Scott Temple
Edward Trowbridge
Mary Wolf & Ronald Majewski
Denise Falvay Wong & John Wong
Susan & Elliot Zeltzer
†Deceased
This list consists of donors 2024-2025, and the current season as of September 15, 2025, at each donor’s highest annual total. DCWS regrets any errors or omissions made in this list of contributors. For corrections, please contact Alli Wamser, Patron Engagement Associate, at wamser@art-ops.org or by calling (248) 559-2095.
RESERVE & ENDOWMENT FUNDS
DCWS Reserve and Endowment funds provide a unique means of contributing for individuals interested in making a lasting impact on Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings. These funds are separated from DCWS operating funds and are used to provide long-term stability, expand its artistic horizons, and invest in special projects. To date, the following donors have contributed over $1 million to DCWS Reserve and Endowment Funds.
$100,000+
Betty† & Art† Blair
Geoff Nathan & Margaret Winters†
$50,000 – $99,999
Sally & Donald Baker
Suzanne & Daniel Boyce
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Nena† & William† Dahling
Josephine Bay & C. Michael Paul Foundation
$25,000 – $49,999
Nancy Jones
Leslie Lazzerin†
Lois† & Gail Warden
$10,000 – $24,999
An Anonymous Supporter
Tina Topalian & Maury Okun
Renate & Richard† Soulen
$7,500 – $9,999
The Okun Family
Kate & Randy Safford
$5,000 – $7,499
Mary Ann & David Beaupre
Ellen† & Douglas Cale
Jane & Jerry† Conway
Deborah Gill
Bunny Hodas
Frances & Jack† King
Cindy & Randy Luck
Peter McAteer
Virginia & Allen Metz
Shirley & Patrick† Mullin
Joyce & John Raymond
Marilyn Hey Webster†
$2,500 – $4,999
David Falvay†
Marilyn & Ronald† Gunther
Merck & Co. (matching gift)
The Kresge Foundation (matching gift)
$1,000 – $2,499
Cecilia Benner
Carol† & David Gaskin
Isadore Goldstein†
Victoria King & James Kors
Kathy & William Lanava
Florence LoPatin
Diana & John E. Marshall III
Victoria & Peter Smith
Jane Van Dragt
Cynthia & Paul von Oeyen
Carroll V. Williams†
$100 – $999
Harriet† & Bryce† Alpern
Nancy Bobrowitz & Timothy Harper
Tessa & Norman Brittenham
Marion & Michael Collier
Minka & Douglas Cornelsen
Jeffrey Cutter
May Davidson†
David DiChiera†
Dorothy† & Donald† Farmer
The Gannett Foundation (matching gift)
Carole Gatwood & Craig Rifel
Sandra Gill
Suzanne Hagopian
Charles Kirkpatrick
Lisa Konikow & Jon Witz
Judy & Laurence Liberson
John MacPhee
Jeannette† & Milton† Miller
Kathryn Mowery
Ruthanne Okun
Rena O’Connor
Raquel Ross†
The Skubick Family
Carla Ree Taylor
Toni Lipton & Scott Temple
Richard Vance
Suzanne & Aaron Weaver
Katherine White
Andrea Wulf
†Deceased
CORPORATE SPONSORS & INSTITUTIONAL FUNDERS
Phillip & Elizabeth Filmer Memorial Charitable Trust
Burton A. Zipser & Sandra D. Zipser Foundation
ABOUT OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS
Founded in 1854, Butzel is one of the oldest law firms in the Midwest and has offices in Michigan, New York City, Washington D.C. and alliance offices in Mexico and China. Since its inception, it has played a prominent role in the development and growth of many industries. The firm has over 3,000 geographically diverse clients that are active in national and international markets. To learn more, visit Butzel.com.
Founded in 1985, Center for Financial Planning provides wealth management services to families and individuals in metro Detroit and around the country. In 2017, the firm was recognized on the Financial Times 300 top registered investment advisors, Crain’s Detroit Cool Places to Work and Financial Advisor magazine’s top registered investment advisors. To learn more, call (248) 948-7900 or visit CenterFinPlan.com.
Whether it’s cleaning a carpet or educating someone about the floor covering that fits their lifestyle, Hagopian World of Rugs has always maintained the highest level of customer service. As an upstanding corporate citizen, the Hagopian World of Rugs and Cleaning Services has continued to give back to the community in new and interesting ways. Annually, their Birmingham showroom has hosted our Nightnotes series. To learn more, visit OriginalHagopian.com.
Pearl Planning is a boutique wealth management planner founded in 2018 by former ArtOps board member Melissa Joy, CFP®. The company is located in Dexter, Michigan, and works with clients throughout Southeast Michigan and across the country. Pearl offers financial planning for real life with approachable strategies that boost confidence in financial decisions. To learn more, visit PearlPlan.com.
ONLINE detroitchamberwinds.org
EMAIL info@detroitchamberwinds.org
PHONE (248) 559-2095
Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
MAIL 24901 Northwestern Highway, Suite 312 Southfield, MI 48075
Due to the nature of the performing arts, programming and artists are subject to change. Subscription discounts must be used as tickets to different concerts, not multiple tickets to one concert. Discounts will be automatically taken after you complete your order. Tickets to fundraising events are not eligible for subscription discount. No refunds.
SUBSCRIBE & SAVE
FULL SEASON PASS
$240
Access every DCWS-ticketed concert throughout the season! The most convenient and cost-effective way to experience all DCWS has to offer.
YOUR SUBSCRIPTION SUPPORTS...
PICK-A-SHOW
SAVE 15%
Customize your own concert experience. Select six or more performances from any series and enjoy a flexible season on your terms.
Your ticket does more than reserve a seat — it helps sustain the chamber music community. Every subscription strengthens our ability to commission new works, support local musicians, and bring music to schools and neighborhoods across the region.
WHY SUBSCRIBE?
• Subscriber Section – The best seats, set aside just for you.
• Easy Exchanges – Can’t make a date? We’ll help you switch.
• Bring a Friend, On Us – Two complimentary guest passes.
• A Thank-You Memento – An exclusive token of our appreciation.
Artist of the Year Concert
featuring pianist Christopher Harding
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 7:00 p.m.
Birmingham Unitarian Church 38651 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
"You and the Thought of You" Robert and Clara Schumann, a Love Story
Tickets: $25 per person
$15 Student | Children under 12 free Join us for a post-concert afterglow
